Officials Concerned About Possible Black Ice On I-45

CORSICANA (CBSDFW.COM) – Icy roads created traffic nightmares for drivers across North Texas on Monday morning, but one of the worst areas was along Interstate-45 in Navarro County. Hundreds of cars and trucks were stuck in the southbound lanes of the highway between Coriscana and Hutchins.

“I live about 3 miles up the road, and I couldn’t see the end of it,” one motorist told CBS 11 News.

The combination of icy roads and a couple of jack knifed big rigs caused the backup, according to Navarro County officials. By the time the crash was cleared, other motorists were stuck in a traffic jam that stretched for miles.

“When we started home we had heard all this was happening, so we decided to just spend the night, because we didn’t know whether to go home I-35 or I-45… I think we made a mistake. We didn’t know it was going to be like this,” said Mary Jane Miller.

Monday’s sunshine, heavy traffic and slightly warmer weather helped melt some ice off the roads, but local officials said they’re worried road conditions may worsen Tuesday.

“Tonight it’s going to refreeze because of the temperatures and then you’re gonna have black ice,” said Navarro County Sheriff Elmer Tanner.

Sheriff Tanner is concerned about the severity of a black ice situation, since many drivers don’t slow down and “contend” for it.